Robert E. Hejkal (Bob), 93, of Ankeny, formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away Tuesday, June 4, 2019, at MercyOne in Des Moines. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 14th at 2:00 p.m., at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (1400 Inspiration Pl SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404). Memorial gifts can be directed to either the American Heart Association or the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids.
Bob was born on June 26, 1925 in Cedar Rapids, to Joseph and Clara (Stritesky) Hejkal. He was raised there and graduated from Roosevelt High School in Cedar Rapids. Following school, Bob enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps on July 11, 1943. He was a radio operator mechanic gunner during WWII. He served in the Pacific Theater and attained the rank of Sergeant. He received four bronze stars during his service and was honorably discharged on January 9, 1946. Following the military, he went to Tri State College in Indiana where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Engineering. Bob was united in marriage to Ann Bennett on June 5, 1949 and they welcomed five children. Bob worked as a mechanical engineer, retiring in 1978 from Bourns. He enjoyed his winters as a snowbird at the Aladdin Villas in Mission, Texas for over 30 years.
Bob was very proud of his Czech family heritage and was a Legacy Society member of the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids. He was also a member of VFW in both Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, the American Legion and Elks Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was a devoted Iowa Hawkeyes fan. He enjoyed ballroom dancing, and especially the polka or waltz. He continued to dance until a few weeks before his passing.
Bob never met a stranger and was loved by everyone that knew him. He was known for his deep commitment and love for his family and countless friends.
Left to remember Bob are his children: Robert (Lois) Hejkal Jr, Yuma, Arizona; Randy (Clark) Melohn, Ankeny, Iowa; Holly (Ed) Goodall, Ames, Iowa; Joseph John Hejkal, Ames, Iowa; and Tina (James) Morris, Gainesville, Florida; nine grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins. Robert was preceded in death by his wife, parents and one sister, Lorraine.
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